Quick Take: Panthers (8-2) at Falcons (6-4)

Last meeting
In Week 4, Muhsin Muhammad set a franchise record for receptions and led the Panthers past the Falcons, 24-9.

Streaks
The teams have split the last 10 matchups, but the Falcons own a 16-10 overall series lead. See a breakdown of the last five meetings.

Last week
Carolina overcome a sluggish start and kept Detroit winless with a 31-22 victory. ... Atlanta could not match a late Denver score with one of its own and fell to the Broncos, 24-20.

Keep your eye on ...
Slumping Steve Smith: The Panthers' No. 1 receiver has cooled off following a hot start to the season. After averaging 102 yards receiving per game in his first six starts, Smith has only 68 yards the last two weeks combined. He did have 96 yards and a TD in his first matchup against Atlanta this year, so this could be the game he breaks out.

Two of the league's best pass rushers:Falcons DE John Abraham is tied for the NFC lead with 11 sacks and Panthers DE Julius Peppers is just one spot behind him with nine. They both have a history of success in this rivalry, so it could be a big day for these elite talents off the edge. Should they make the Pro Bowl this year? Vote now!

Falcons' home-field advantage: Last week's narrow loss to Denver was Atlanta's first home defeat this season. It is playing far better at home than on the road and the Panthers have gone just 2-2 on the road this season, while going 6-0 at home.

Did you know?
The Panthers have a chance to start 9-2 for the first time in franchise history. ... Carolina RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart each rushed for 100 yards in last week's win over Detroit, the first time two Panthers have rushed for 100 yards in the same game. ... Michael Turner is tied for first with the most home rushing TDs (8).

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